Camera Module Discharge Electrode Layout to Prevent Sensor Arcing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electrostatic charge accumulation in compact camera modules leads to attractive forces that interfere with optical image stabilization and autofocus, causing performance degradation and dust retention, which increases manufacturing costs and rejection rates.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of a high voltage discharge electrode within the camera module to ionize gases and neutralize charge accumulation, preventing arcing with the image sensor by positioning it behind an infrared cut filter and substrate, and using a discharge electrode to ionize gases and dislodge dust particles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a discharge electrode is added to neutralize electrostatic charge, then charge accumulation is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharge neutralizationVSAvoidelectrode structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The discharge electrode is integrated with the infrared cut filter, combining two separate components (charge neutralization function and optical filtering function) into a single unified structure. This reduces overall device complexity while maintaining both functions effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The infrared cut filter is designed to serve dual purposes: its primary function of blocking infrared light from reaching the image sensor, and a secondary function as a substrate for mounting the discharge electrode, thereby enabling charge neutralization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If high voltage is applied to the discharge electrode, then charge neutralization is effective, but arcing risk to the image sensor increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharge neutralization effectivenessVSAvoidarcing damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The infrared cut filter acts as an intermediary barrier between the high voltage discharge electrode and the image sensor. This intermediate layer prevents direct electrical contact and arcing while allowing the electrode to effectively neutralize charges in the air space above the sensor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The internal space of the camera module is divided into distinct electrical zones: a high voltage zone where the discharge electrode operates, and a low voltage zone where the image sensor is protected. The infrared cut filter serves as the boundary between these zones, enabling high voltage operation without endangering sensitive components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If the discharge electrode is positioned close to the image sensor for effective charge neutralization, then charge neutralization efficiency improves, but arcing risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecharge neutralization efficiencyVSAvoidarcing hazard

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The infrared cut filter serves as a physical intermediary that enables close positioning of the discharge electrode to the image sensor plane while preventing harmful arcing. The filter material provides electrical insulation while maintaining optical functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The discharge electrode is positioned in the vertical dimension above the infrared cut filter, rather than horizontally adjacent to the image sensor. This vertical arrangement allows effective charge neutralization of the air space above the sensor while the filter provides horizontal separation and protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Restores nominal operation of optical image stabilization and autofocus systems, reduces manufacturing defects, and minimizes production of ozone, effectively neutralizing charge and dislodging dust particles.

Implementation Method 1

a discharge electrode disposed on the upper surface and configured to ionize gases within the first portion of the interior volume to neutralize charge accumulation within the interior volume

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIonization: Ionisation

Implementation Method 2

minimizes production of ozone

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOzone production: Ozone

Data Source

PatentUS12532061B2High voltage discharge electrode for electrostatic charge neutralization in compact camera modules

Publication Date: 2026.01.20 APPLE INC

AI summary

A camera module for an electronic device includes an actuator structure for positioning an element of the camera module, such as an image sensor or a lens element. The actuator structure includes an insulating material that physically and conductively separates the image sensor from a discharge electrode configured to be driven to high voltage so as to ionize gasses within a module housing of the camera module without risking arcing to the image sensor. Operation of the discharge electrode may neutralize charged surfaces and/or charged particles in the camera module, which may facilitate operation of the camera module.